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Japan's newly elected leader, Sanae Takaichi, is ready to face her initial significant foreign policy test as she sits down with ex-President Donald Trump for high-stakes talks in Tokyo.

The focus of their encounter is expected to center on economic and security issues, marking a pivotal juncture for Japan's relationship with its influential ally.

A Historic Premiership and Global Introduction

The new PM, who recently assumed the role of Japan's initial woman leader after securing the top position of the ruling LDP, had her international introduction at the recent Asean meeting.

But, her upcoming meeting with Trump is seen as the real challenge that will establish the direction for future two-way cooperation.

Managing Domestic and International Pressures

The prime minister confronts a possibly shaky government landscape, having established a coalition that leaves her two seats away of a controlling number in the influential chamber of parliament.

This means, her government will rely on opposition lawmakers to approve laws, adding a element of complexity to her governance.

Common Views and Diverging Policies

Takaichi holds Trump's suspicion of China's military activities in the region, yet each countries have experienced issues from his "US-first" economic approach.

Lately, Trump facilitated a truce agreement between Thai and Cambodia forces on the initial leg of his Asian tour.

Military Expansion and Budget Commitments

The leader has expressed her determination to accelerate Japan's defense build-up, planning to increase military spending to two percent of GDP by the close of the fiscal year.

This step matches a longstanding request from Trump and represents the largest defense expansion for the nation since the Second World War.

Security Partnership and Tensions

The country has also moved to obtain "counterstrike" capabilities, including cruise weapons from the United States, and intends to deploy locally made extended-range systems.

However, the two-way security treaty is still a point of tension, with Trump previously suggesting that the nation should pay more for hosting US forces on its soil.

Economic Expectations and Talks

Few anticipate major concessions on economic matters this week, especially after recent duty adjustments offered a degree of ease to the country's export sector.

Takaichi is likely to seek additional relief by committing to increased acquisitions of US goods, including vehicles, soybeans, and natural gas.

Personal Chemistry and the Abe Link

The importance the former president attributes to individual rapport could work in Takaichi's favor, given her close relationship with the late ex-leader Abe, who was among Trump's favorite international figures.

He was the initial foreign leader to meet Trump after his victory, and the pair built a strong bond over mutual interests such as the sport.

Forthcoming Schedule and International Significance

The former president's trip to the country will start with a audience with the Emperor at the Imperial Palace in the capital.

This will be followed by discussions with the PM at the official residence, the same location where Trump held talks with Abe in 2019.

Afterward, the former president will travel to the Republic of Korea for the Apec meeting, where he is set to engage with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.